HeadachesSymptoms
Headaches are common and often improve with attention to triggers, posture and neck movement. Learn what they are, red flags to watch for, and how physiotherapy supports recovery.
What are headaches?
Headaches range from tension-type to cervicogenic (neck-related) patterns. They may be influenced by sleep, stress, screen time and neck posture/mobility, and often improve with targeted habits and movement.
Urgent care is needed if headaches follow significant trauma, are sudden and severe ("thunderclap"), occur with fever, or present with neurological symptoms (confusion, weakness, visual changes). A GP will advise when scans are appropriate.
Who it affects and typical treatment
Who it affects
- Common in adults 20–60; periods of stress or poor sleep
- Screen-heavy work with sustained neck posture
- Post-illness or dehydration-related episodes
Typical treatment plan
- Education on triggers, sleep and pacing
- Neck mobility, postural and shoulder strengthening
- Short‑term symptom relief as needed
Common causes
Tension-type
Stress, screen time and posture-related muscle tension.
Cervicogenic
Neck joint/muscle referral; often with stiff or sensitive neck.
Migraine (medical)
Requires medical management; physio supports triggers/neck.
Dehydration/sleep
Lifestyle factors that amplify sensitivity; address foundations.
Load/sport spikes
Upper back/neck overload during busy or novel periods.
Common symptoms
- Dull, pressure-like pain around the forehead, temples or neck
- Neck stiffness or discomfort with prolonged positions
- Sensitivity to stress, poor sleep or dehydration
- Occasional referral from neck to head (cervicogenic)
Related symptoms: Neck pain, Muscle stiffness
How a physiotherapist can help
- Education on triggers, pacing and flare management
- Neck mobility, postural control and shoulder strengthening
- Breathing and relaxation strategies to reduce tension
Effective treatments
Exercise therapy
- Neck mobility and postural strengthening
- Shoulder and upper back endurance
Manual therapy (short‑term)
- Pain‑modulating techniques alongside exercise
- Used judiciously based on irritability
Education & self‑management
- Sleep, hydration and screen-break strategies
- Stress management and relaxation skills
Adjuncts
- Heat/ice, short‑term analgesics as advised
- Relaxation and breathing techniques
At‑home management
Mobility
- Gentle neck range (2–3 x daily)
- Chin tucks and upper back mobility
- Short walks to reduce tension
Strength
- Postural endurance (scapular setting)
- Shoulder/upper back light strengthening
- Progress weekly if well-tolerated
Habits
- Regular screen breaks and hydration
- Wind‑down routine for sleep
- Stress management and pacing
Increase gradually if next‑day symptoms are acceptable. Reduce reps/sets during flares.
What to expect in physiotherapy
1) Assessment
- History, red‑flag screen, neck/upper back checks
- Agree goals (work, screen use, sleep)
2) Plan
- Education, pacing and starter exercises
- Ergonomics and hydration/sleep strategies
3) Progress
- Advance mobility, strength and self‑management
- Return to activity/sport with flare planning
Many improve in 2–12 weeks; persistent cases may need longer with staged loading.
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.